Mutations in the hepatitis B virus polymerase gene associated with antiviral treatment for hepatitis B

Significant advances have been made, during the last 5 years, in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. Several new antiviral agents: lamivudine, famciclovir, lobucavir and adefovir, have been shown to be safe and effective in inhibiting hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. These compounds can be administered orally and are well tolerated. However, virus clearance is uncommon after short courses (< 6 months) of therapy, Lamivudine and famciclovir have been evaluated in Phase III clinical trials in patients with chronic hepatitis B as well as in liver transplant recipients. Unfortunately, drug-resistant mutants involving the HBV polymerase gene, leading to breakthrough infection, have been reported in some patients who have received long courses (greater than or equal to 12 months) of treatment. The incidence, clinical outcome and biological significance of these mutants will be reviewed.